AC Milan have declared victory in their attempts to keep Alexandre Pato from Chelsea's clutches.

The Italian giants intend to hand the prodigious Brazil striker an extended contract after reiterating they had turned down a massive bid for him.

Sportsmail understands Chelsea were eyeing a £45million move for the 19-year-old and Pato has been sending mixed messages about the prospect of being reunited with former Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti, who is now in charge at Stamford Bridge.

But Pato yesterday confirmed his desire to stay at the San Siro and Milan general manager Adriano Galliani said: 'Pato will get a contract extension.

'I am absolutely delighted by Pato's comments.

'We have always spoken to Pato and the comments that arrive from other continents usually are mistaken.

'There were no doubts and there are no doubts regarding his future.

'The only offer that has arrived to our club was a monster offer from England for Alexandre Pato.

'I continue to believe that there isn't a player in the world that is as strong as him of his age. In any case, no one should worry because he is under contract through June 2012.'

Pato finished as Milan's second highest scorer behind Kaka in Serie A last season with 15 goals in 36 appearances.

On tour: Pato (centre) visits the Pretoria Lion Park with Brazil team-mates Juan (left) and Kleber while in South Africa for the Confederations Cup